Episode 85: Black Label Society: Name In Blood

We would love to hear from you!! Send us a textReview Black Label Society's new single and discuss related music news.Key Takeaways"Name in Blood" is a 9/10 classic BLS track. Its monster riff, tasteful solos, and "chug-and-groove" pace make it the band's best single in a decade.A BLS show is set for March 17 at the Orpheum. The lineup includes Dario's Dark Chapel and Zakk Sabbath, with tickets at ~$72–$100.Megadeth's new album is the next review topic. The single "Puppet Parade" has a classic '90s thrash tone, but the band's 2001 acoustic album was deemed a failure.TopicsBlack Label Society: "Name in Blood" ReviewThe single is a standout track, embodying the classic BLS sound.Key Elements:Riff: A "monster" chug-and-groove riff that "swims around the root note."Intro: An ACDC-style clean guitar intro, reminiscent of "Who Made Who."Chorus: A powerful, descending vocal melody with a massive instrumental resolution.Solos: Tasteful and song-serving, featuring Zakk Wylde's signature shred and tasteful double-guitar harmonies.Rating: 9/10.Rationale: A near-perfect track, but a 10/10 is reserved for masterpieces like Metallica's "Master of Puppets."Concern: The track is so strong it may overshadow the rest of the album, a pattern seen with past singles like "Set You Free."BLS Live Show & Album DetailsEvent: Black Label Society at the Orpheum in Vancouver, BC.Date: March 17, 2026.Lineup:Dark Chapel (Dario's band)Zakk Sabbath (Zakk Wylde's Black Sabbath cover set)Black Label SocietyAlbum Release: The new album drops March 27, 2026, ten days after the show.Music News & General DiscussionMetallica: 25th anniversary of Jason Newsted's departure.Rumor: A Vegas Sphere residency is planned for late 2026/early 2027.Rob Zombie & Marilyn Manson Tour: An East Coast/Southern US tour was announced.Manson's Early Philosophy: His '90s interviews revealed a sharp intellect and a belief that music reflects, rather than causes, societal issues like poor parenting.Megadeth: The new self-titled album is out this Friday.Single "Puppet Parade": Features a classic '90s thrash tone."Unplugged in Boston" (2001): The acoustic album was criticized for awkwardly translating thrash songs like "Symphony of Destruction" without proper re-arrangement.Next StepsMike & Sebastian: Decide whether to attend the March 17 BLS show.Mike & Sebastian: Review Megadeth's new album for next week's episode.Mandatory Music is proudly hosted and produced by Michael Heide and Sebastian KwapichContact Mandatory Music:email us at [email protected] us on Facebook search mandatory musicInstagram: mandatory_music1Twitter(X) @mandatory_musicThanks for listening and keep on rocking